If you have ever been in a jam up high on the wall, luckily you have lived long enough to read this article. If you never have been stuck, now is a good time to hone your skills for when all seems lost.

Long throughout the history of mountain backcountry travel there has been a constant threat that has sat waiting, just underneath the cold white surface. Snow avalanches have killed thousands of people traveling and living in the mountains, devastating both lives and property. Take for instance the tragedy that occurred on March 1, 1910 near Steven’s Pass when an avalanche tore two Great Northern trains from their tracks, killing 96 people. With potential catastrophes looming in the future, winter backcountry travel in the Cascades demands a very real respect. A part of paying toll to that respect is to instill knowledge about how and where avalanches can occur. This way you are prepared to take action to both prevent an avalanche, and respond when the unfortunate does happen.

When you go hiking there are a few things that you should make sure you have. Most important of them all are the 'Ten Essentials'. You can survive several unexpected nights if you keep your wits, and the following ten items close by your side. Look through our check list and make sure you are prepared on your next trip.

Sitting by the campfire and telling stories is one of the longest lasting memories when camping. Having a campfire does come with responsibilities though.